The Akwa Ibom State Police Command said four sea robbers were shot dead, while three others escaped during a gun battle with the police.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Odiko Macdon, stated on Wednesday in a press release made available to newsmen in Uyo that the operation, which involved the marine police, happened along Ikang Creek in Oron Local Government Area.
He stated that a total of 32 suspected robbers aboard four-speed boats armed with sophisticated weapons opened fire on the marine police after sighting them.
He said after the gun battle, one W23 boat mounted with a 115HP Yamaha engine, two rifles and six ammunition were recovered from the suspects.
“Acting on very credible intelligence, on 13th April 2021, operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Marine Police, Oron, embarked on a sting operation, along Ikang Creek, Oron where they were confronted by sea pirates numbering about 32 onboard four speed boats, armed with sophisticated weapons.
“The suspects on sighting the operatives opened fire on them, during the ensuing gun battle, four suspects met their waterloo, while others escaped with three speed boats,” he said.
Odiko further stated that one armed robbery suspect died from gunshots during an encounter with the police along Church road in Uyo, while his counterpart was arrested.
He said one locally made pistol, one live cartridge, one expended cartridge, one axe, one machete and a facemask were recovered from the suspect.